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Ocean Beach jazz fest celebrates 3 years
Broadcasting community mourns professor Fred Lewis
Arts, page 4
WHAT’S NEWS Known artists slated for book fair
News, page 3
CityTimes
Volume 62, Number 2
Covering the San Diego City College community since 1945
Presentation on origin of species stirs controversy
Luis Bahena City Times With its first year a success, City College hosts its second annual San Diego City College International Book Fair on Oct. 5 and 6. The book fair was introduced last year, drawing approximately 2,500 people. Initially inspired by the Miami Dade International Book Fair, it was City College President Terrance Burgess who pushed for the idea. More than a year in planning, this year’s book fair is filled with a plethora of booksellers, vendors, writers, artist, performers and food. City College will host famous authors such as Quincy Troupe, named the first official Poet Laureate of the state of California, and Denise Chavez, who will give a special workshop for Puente students in the district. Other authors attending the event include Amiri Baraka, Oakley Hall, Rebecca Solnit, Daniel Reveles, David Bacon, Mel Freilicher, Adrian Arancibia and San Diego State University photography teacher Kim Stringfellow. Music will also be a part of the book fair with presentations from cellist Zoë Keating, who has accompanied Grammy-nominated artist Imogen Heap, and jazz musicians The Gilbert Castellanos Quartet with special guest Charles McPherson. According to the book fair’s Web site, the event’s primary goal is to promote local writers and booksellers, as well as to reach out to international artists and authors. The book fair will be held in the Saville Theatre on Oct. 5 and 6. Admission is free. For more information, visit the book fair’s Web site at www. sdcitybookfair.com.
INDEX Calendar..................................... 2 News..........................................3 Arts............................................4 Opinion.......................................6 Sports........................................8
September 25, 2007
Debate transformed into lecture following a wave of protest Alissa Wisniewski City Times
NOE ROJAS Contributor
City attorney speaks San Diego City Attorney Michael Aguirre lectures on “The Right to Participate in Government under the California Constitution” Sept. 17 in San Diego City College’s Saville Theatre. Aguirre spoke as part of Constitution Week, sponsored by City’s history and political science departments.
The Big Bang. There has been a timeless controversy over what – or who – set it in motion. Now that controversy has exploded at San Diego City College. On Sept. 19 in the Seville Theatre, Dr. E.C. Ashby lectured about creationism and evolutionism, two seemingly contradictory theories he ties together with grace. Even a zealous evolutionist might be tempted by his confident demeanor. Originally a debate, the event was transformed into a lecture series following a wave of protest. Ashby is a chemistry professor and devout Christian while his opponent would have been Pastor Barry Minkow, a senior pastor at the San Diego Community Bible Church and a fellow Christian. The event was sponsored by the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. On the initial world cultures event calendar, Ashby’s religious affiliation was omitted and IVCF’s title was shortened to InterVarsity. Described in this way, students could interpret the debate as an impartial portrayal of the issue. Saturated with Christian influence, the debate had the potential to be misleading to students who were looking for unbiased discussion on the topic, critics
See Debate, page 2
Cost Reduction Act awaiting Bush approval Whitney Lawrence City Times The College Cost Reduction Act, passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on Sept. 7, calls for an increase in Pell Grant scholarship awards, reduction of student loan interest rates, and a simplified college financial aid process. The act is now pending presidential approval and if passed will take immediate affect on college students across the United States. “That’s my understanding,” said Gregory Sanchez, City College’s financial aid Director, “is that the President will sign it.
There were enough changes in it to meet his approval.” After Congress presented the bill to the president on Sept. 20, Congressman George Miller of California, who sponsored the bill, stated with confidence during a teleconference that “the bill will be passed in the next few days.” An increase in Pell Grant awards is among the top priorities of the act. According to the U.S. Department of Education, college students are awarded Pell Grants based on their Estimated Family Contribution, or EFC, and are not required to pay them back. The proposed bill will raise the maximum Pell Grant award from
$4,310 to $4,800 in the 2008-09 school year and peak at $5,400 by 2013. “It’s huge,” Sanchez said of the bill. “I’m pleased with the increase. The more Pell Grants (students) can get the fewer loans they have to borrow. It’s a real benefit.” Another asset to the College Cost Reduction Act is called Tuition Sensitivity. San Diego City College students pay $20 per unit, among the lowest in the nation for college tuition. One drawback to the low fees is that City College students are not getting the maximum Pell Grant awards. With Tuition Sensitivity, the government will no longer
use tuition cost as a factor, giving City College students the best of both worlds — low tuition and high scholarship awards. Upon approval, Sanchez says the College Cost Reduction Act will have immediate effect on City College students, as well as college students around the country. Since the bill is retroactive to July 1, students who are eligible to more money under the Cost Reduction Act will receive the difference at a later date yet to be determined. The bill also states that student loan interest rates will be
See ACT, page 2
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NEWS / CALENDAR
City Times
Debate Continued from page 1 charged. “Instead of an objective representation of both views, we’re now getting a Christian interpretation of both views,” Michael Taylor, Vice President of Phi Theta Kappa, said. Taylor’s primary concern was for students still developing their ability to critically analyze issues. “That’s who I’m speaking for,” he said. “[The advertising] was misleading to the majority of students … as if they were going to something fair and balanced.” Karen Lim, co-director of World Cultures, approved the speakers and didn’t see a problem with the selection. “The event is during Constitution Week … world cultures supports free speech. We don’t censor speakers and we have no control over what they say once they have been approved to speak,” Lim said. Lim agreed to alter the event under pres-
Act Continued from page 1 taking a dive. The interest rates of subsidized student loans (those in which the U.S. Department of Education covers interest while the student is enrolled in college at least half time) are currently 6.8 percent. In the 2008-09 school year, the College Cost Reduction Act will drop interest rates to 6.12 percent and will keep falling until 2012 when it reaches 3.4 percent. In essence, in-
September 25, 2007
sure from faculty and because she feels students “should have the ability to make up their minds and be shown both sides of the story.” She was unaware that students were feeling betrayed by the school because of how the debate was advertised. “If they advertised it honestly, it would be fine because it was represented consistent with what it is … misrepresentation is the main concern … this bleeds into the arena of ethics,” Taylor said. Biology department chair Minou Spradley also believes the debate was misrepresented and would have presented the issue from a religious perspective. “If you’re going to have a debate about creation and evolution, there better be a person very knowledgeable about creationism and someone very knowledgeable about evolution … the two original speakers were not experts on evolution,” Minou said. At the start of his lecture, it was apparent that critics’ concerns were justified, as Ashby is not a strict evolutionist. He embraces both theories. “The evidence is strong in both directions … you can prove creation from scientific data,” he said. He believes
the controversy stems from the complication of the issue, as it uses information from numerous fields of study, and from “journalists with no scientific background [who] cause confusion with articles.” True to his word, Ashby is not bound by his religious beliefs, unable to venture outside the world depicted in the Bible. He nomadically searches for answers, but won’t stray too far from Christianity. “By looking for truth, I managed to alienate both sides,” he said, “I’m against teaching [creationism] in schools, so my friends at church won’t talk to me … faculty at Georgia Institute of Technology believing in Darwin-evolutionism won’t talk to me … it’s a lonely world,” though that last part was said with a smile. Ashby concluded with his hypothesis. “The origin of the universe is best explained by creation. There’s no other reasonable explanation according to probability calculations … the growth and multiplication of species is an evolutionary process. Darwinism is the result of a preprogrammed event by the Creator prior to the Big Bang.” Spradley felt he made valid points but presented a hypothesis that wasn’t scien-
tific. It introduces the idea of an intelligent designer, an idea that can’t be proven using science. She agrees that “biologists don’t have a good answer for the origin of life” but not his suggestion that an intelligent designer exists by default. He blurs the line between religion and science because this is not a testable hypothesis. To provide symmetry to the issue, Spradley organized a separate lecture taking place Monday, Oct. 1 at 11:10 in the morning in the Saville Theatre, featuring Francisco Ayala, a University of Calif., Irvine biology professor who specializes in evolutionary biology. Ayala will discuss the contents of his book, “Darwin’s Gift to Science and Religion.” Spradley says this way, “students will get two opposing views … it’s a more balanced way than before.” Taylor believes a better remedy would be a debate with an appropriate speaker in evolution’s corner. As a lecture series, Christians get the first word and the same people might not attend both events. “Have someone who’s personal bias won’t color their interpretation of evolution,” he said.
terest paid on these loans will be halved, a student who borrows $10,000 in subsidized loans will pay $340 in interest instead of $680 at the current rate. The Direct Loan program helps keep City College graduates from defaulting (failing to pay) on their loan payback. Since switching to the Direct Loan program 10 years ago, City College’s default rate went from 25 percent to 10.6 percent. “We’re very pleased,” Sanchez explains. “We’ve had a steady decrease over the past 10 years.” The College Cost Reduction Act of 2007 will further help students from going into
default on their loans by “making student loan payments more manageable for borrowers by guaranteeing that borrowers will not have to pay more than 15 percent of their discretionary income in loan repayments, and allowing borrowers in economic hardship to have their loans forgiven after 20 years,” the House Education and Labor Committee reports. According to the Committee on Education and Labor, the College Cost Reduction Act “will do more to help students and families pay for college than any federal effort since the 1944 GI Bill.” Introduced in 1944, the GI Bill is cred-
ited for changing the face of higher education and improving the U.S. economy. About 33 percent of City College students receive some sort of financial aid, and Sanchez says he suspects more are eligible. “The main thing is that students should just apply … just complete the FAFSA, the Free Application for Student Aid, and submit it,” Sanchez said. “It doesn’t cost you anything but a postage stamp and if you do it online it doesn’t cost you anything … and just see what happens. You might be eligible for a Board of Governors Fee Waiver, a Pell Grant, or other types of aid.”
Please recycle this newspaper.
CALENDAR
Compiled by Shevaun Brandom Send items to City Times, 1313 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101, e-mail citytimes@gmail.com, call (619) 388-3880, or fax (619) 388-3814 n Sept. 17th-Oct. 27th Fleet Week 2007 Honoring Military personnel For more information visit: wwWomen’sfleetweeksa ndiego.org n Sept. 29th & 30th and Oct. 5th & 6th 9th Annual Trolley Dances Smart Corner Trolley Stop n Sept. 28 Friday Men’s X-Country at Foothill Invitational 10AM Women’s Soccer at Sequoias 1PM Men’s Soccer at Mira Costa 3:15PM n Sept. 29 Saturday Women’s Volleyball SDCC tournament All Day n Sept. 30th Sunday 10 am Make A Wish Tuna Challenge
Awards Banquet and Auction 2091 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego n Oct. 3 Wednesday Men’s Soccer vs. Southwestern 1PM Women’s Soccer vs. Imperial Valley 3:15PM Women’s Volleyball vs. Imperial Valley 5PM n Oct. 5 Friday Women’s Soccer vs. Grossmont 1PM Men’s Soccer vs. SD Mesa 3:15PM Women’s Volleyball at Palomar 6PM n Oct. 6 Saturday Men’s X-Country at SoCal Preview 10AM Women’s X-Country at SoCal Preview 10AM n Oct. 11-18 San Diego Asian Film Festival 7510 Hazard Center Dr, San Diego
September 25, 2007
NEWS
City Times 3
Broadcasting community mourns professor Danny Penera City Times Having a pleasant-sounding voice was a gift that Fred Lewis used to build a reputation in San Diego broadcasting. But what he used it for was more than that – he gave his gift to the public so that others could be known and understood as well. As a longtime teacher to those who attend and work at San Diego City College, he was responsible for waking up the inner voice that laid dormant in so many of his former students.
Now these voices of San Diego mourn after Fred Lewis, a longtime announcer, model, broadcaster and teacher died Sept. 6 at the age of 78. He had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2002. However, illness alone was not enough to silence Lewis. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer, Lewis continued to work on his show “The Heart of San Diego,” in which he had conducted 653 interviews. Lewis performed his last show with his wife, Jenny, on Aug 17. On his show, Lewis was known
for being interested in getting to know the real person and not just the celebrity that the media had portrayed, said Craig Chatfield, one of Lewis’ former students. “He was very genuFred Lewis ine” Chatfield said. “What you saw on TV was what you got in person.” For over three decades, students at City College had the
chance to find out “what you got in person” with Lewis, who taught many broadcasting students who have come through City College. He helped his students to be more self aware and confident in front of an audience and he did so by encouraging them to be themselves and nobody else, according to Chatfield. “He touched many lives and enabled many students to go on and have successful lives,” Chatfield said. Evidence of Lewis’ teaching success is present at City College on the C Building’s Wall of Fame,
which contains pictures of former City College students who have gone on to lead professional lives in broadcasting, many of whom were taught by Lewis. In Lewis’ own work, his manner of reporting allowed others to see deeper than what a primary glance would suggest. Like others in the field, Lewis believed that most issues required some deeper examination. This, however, was not applicable to the man himself, as many say Lewis was up front and open.
See PROFESSOR, page 5
Latino community marks Mexico’s independence Evonne Ermey City Times Beneath the crisscrossing freeways and vibrantly painted murals of Chicano Park, San Diego’s Latino community gathered on Sept. 15 with red, white and green flags in hand, to celebrate Mexico’s 197th Independence Day. The park, an epicenter of activity in the Latino community and host of many events throughout the year, bustled with activity as performers put finishing touches on costumes and practiced dance routines. Vendors from the community sat comfortably behind booths as spectators hovered, salivating over sweet smelling corn tortillas and seasoned carne asada. The festival, the seventh annual at Chicano Park, embraced an atmosphere of family and community togetherness. The celebration was organized by La Coalición Pro Derechos de la Raza along with the Chicano Park Steering Committee. It showcased performances by local musicians and dancers such as the Balet Folklorico, Danca de
Diablo, Calpoli Mexica, and the Mariachi band, Tierra Del Sol. Community leaders and activists were also taking the stage to give words of encouragement to the community. These words urged community members to stay strong and continue their struggle for equal rights and opportunities. One of the highlights of the festival was the marching of the flag, called the escorta, performed by The Group of Youth Somos Raza, a youth group for the Latino community. Atriama Jasso, the coordinator of the Raza Rights Coalicion, led the escorta and delivered a fiery speech to a rapt audience. She challenged the people not just to admire the works of former Latino heroes, but also to act against injustices they face as a community. This is not to say that the Latino community is not active; the amount of coordination and community contribution at the festival was impressive. Christian Ramirez, a member of Union
See MEXICO, page 7
Dead Sea Scrolls lecture kicks off World Cultures Benjamin Cruz City Times TROLLEY DANCES Courtesy Photo
The ninth annual Trolley Dances are scheduled for Sept. 29 and 30, and Oct. 6 and 7, in downtown San Diego.
Trolley Dances take movement to the streets katie dunn City Times Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater and the Metropolitan Transit System are presenting dance performances to the people of San Diego along Trolley lines across the city. There are six guided tours
that begin at the new Smart Corner College Trolley stop on Park and Broadway, beginning at 11a.m. and continuing every 45 minutes on Sat. and Sun., Sept. 29 and 30, and Sat. and Sun., Oct. 6 and 7. At various locations along the trolley line dance performances are staged for the patrons riding
the trolley. This year, locations along the ride will include, but will not be limited to, the new Lillian Place Affordable Housing Project, and the Museum of Contemporary Art recently opened at the Santa Fe Depot trolley stop.
See DANCES, page 5
The World Cultures program at City College opened their fall schedule with a lecture to remind students that one of the most significant findings of the 20th century has come to San Diego. The presentation began at 9:30 in the morning with Co-Director, Professor Karen Lim, introducing Professor Meehan as the presenter with Damian Salvaggio running the slide show. Meehan’s lecture focused on the who, what, when, where and why’s of the Dead Sea Scrolls. For example, she said that it’s now commonly accepted by
many scholars that a Jewish sect, the Essenes authored or copied texts (biblical, apocryphal and sectarian) while living in Qumran between the 2nd century B.C.E. and the 1st century C.E. The scrolls themselves were found between 1947 and 1956 in caves near the Dead Sea by an old goat herder. They contain enough information to fill this entire issue. So, Meehan’s presentation focused on the important aspects of the scrolls, making the exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum a “must see” for those who’ve never heard of the scrolls. Meehan showed the links
See SCROLLS, page 7
ARTS
4 City Times
September 25, 2007
Jazz 88 Ocean Beach jazz festival turns three MANNY LOPEZ Contributor The Pacific Ocean and the Ocean Beach pier formed a picture perfect backdrop for the third annual Jazz 88 Ocean Beach Jazz Festival held Sunday Sept. 9, on the waterfront at the foot of Newport Avenue. The one-day event featured an enthusiastic crowd, gorgeous San Diego weather, excellent scenery, and of course great music. The festival keeps getting bigger and better. The sold out crowd included a mixture of locals and fans that traveled from as far away as Northern California, Los Angeles, and Orange County to soak up the music. Although called a jazz festival, the event could be classified as a jazz and blues festival, as both genres were very well represented. The line-up consisted of world class musicians, including The Jazz 88 All Star Band, Hammond B-3 virtuoso Joey DeFrancesco, “the Godfather of Vibrasoul” Dave Pike with Mundell Lowe, blues guitar legend Duke Robillard, and closing out the set was Grammy Award winner Poncho Sanchez. Sanchez had the crowd on their feet with his hard hitting brand of Latin inspired funk, jazz, and soul. Right from the start everyone was grooving. The diversity of the music along with the intoxicating weather created an environment that had the dance floor filled with people twisting and turning. They seemed content, in that out of control sort of way. In attendance were Mayor Jerry Sanders and District 2 Councilmember Kevin Falconer, both of whom presented event organizers with a resolution from the San Diego City Council proclaiming the festival the culminating event of San Diego Jazz Week. The brains behind Jazz 88 were station manager Mark DeBoskey and San Diego Community College District Trustee Rich Grosch. This event brought together
JAZZ 88 Courtesy Photo
Latin Jazz Band artist Poncho Sanchez drums away at the third annual Jazz 88 Festival. friends both old and new in the spirit of sharing a special way of life like only San Diego can. “Jazz is about freedom, expression, and improvisation,” said Chris Springer, host of Jazz 88’s Latin Grooves, a radio show that air’s Saturdays from one to three in
the afternoon. The festival has come to be known is a true embodiment and celebration of these three ideals. The festival was “an emotionally satisfying experience with something for everyone,” said Francis Carasquillo of Chula Vista. As the festival came to a close, it
Artists gather at San Diego Art Walk Walking through Seaport Village on a bright sunny day, gives you the feeling that something festive is about to commence. People young and old, line the walkways, fill the shops and make there way to the park to enjoy art, music and a variety of delectables. September 8 and 9 was the San Diego Art Walk on the Bay. Local artists from San Diego County, as well as Mexico, participated at the two-day event showing paintings, photographs and even jewelry to the local and visiting passer buyers. Each artist had something different to bring to the table. Like Kate McCavit, for instance who is a self- taught Asian brush artist. Her style blends a lot of color and variety, which makes for a very pretty painting to put on the wall. “I use acrylic,” McCavit explained. “I love color, mixed
wasn’t surprising to hear many voices saying “see you next year.” With the increasing popularity of the event, the superb weather conditions, and the strong line-up of internationally recognized talent, one can expect to see the festival become more prominent in 2008.
‘Prime’ time gives audience mixed messages Scenic view leads to fancy prices, but fine dining is skewed by its informal setting
SHEVAUN BRANDOM City Times
Gina Palmerin shows her art at the San Diego Art Walk at the Embarcadero.
ARTS REVIEW
Shanika Whaley
with a modern influence.” Although McCavit is a selftaught Asian brush artist, she did not have to do the long distance traveling to get the experience. “I trained in San Diego and I taught myself.” She adds, “People always ask me how it’s done, so I have a diagram which shows all the steps I go through.” Besides viewing Asian influenced art, you can take a look
at the ‘worlds smallest Etch and Press.’ The Arizona print group gave a demonstration of the smallest Etch and Press, which without a doubt, is very small. “The Etch and Press was designed in 1946 by Morris T. Hobbs,” reflected Joan C. Thompson of the Arizona Print Group. “After the Etch is prepared, pre-moistened paper is laid on top of the Etch, then rolled through the press, very slowly.” Despite its small size, the Etch and Press did indeed roll out a
See ARTISTS, Page 5
A light fog seems to have drifted off the water and into Island Prime’s dining room, creeping low on wooden paneled walls and dimly lit tables stark of any linen. Countless bay windows and raised rafters blend a kaleidoscopic view of San Diego’s aquatic fronts, forcing me to switch seats twice before choosing downtown lights over harbor reflections. Bobbing above serene waterways, Island Prime set patrons adrift in a type of secluded offshore cabin, but all passengers seem to be in the same boat whether they’re dressed for it or not. A Titanic ensemble range in apparel from jeans to formal wear, creating an unclear impression to whether this is an elegant experience or a high priced hoot-nanny. I was torn between my pleased palate and my wilted wallet. Was there room in this lifeboat for
FOOD REVIEW Lauren Ciallella
everyone or should the inflated price keep the swarthy customers castaways? Our waiter immediately arrived to fill drink orders and inform us that he would be indisposed for a few moments with a newly seated table of six. Impressed with his direct communication, we were never questioning his brief, yet noticeable absence as we were plied with cocktails and the airy, pancake battered muffins that morphed into an upscale carnival treat. After our waiter’s slight delay, he floated at our elbows for the remainder of the meal, sensing each need before we knew them ourselves.
See PRIME, Page 5
September 25, 2007
ARTS / NEWS
City Times
Professor Continued from page 3
Manny Lopez Contributor
Seen at the OB jazz festival ...
Kristen Cusato, KUSI weekend morning anchor, Perette Godwin, KSWB CW morning news anchor and Chris Springer Jazz 88 host of Latin Grooves hang out at the third annual Jazz 88 festival.
Prime Continued from page 4 Our clams casino were gone faster than cash in its gambling namesake, shelling out moist, garlic breading with hits of citrus in each dime sized bite. My fellow forager had to talk me out of getting a second order and though this casino addiction wasn’t a gamble, I realized it was just as dangerous. A ‘study in lobster’ had me on my way to becoming an ‘A’ student with three individual preparations of the Maine variety, making a sweeter, more succulent entrance than the west coast, Mexican lobster. Opening with bisque, a heartfelt “hallelujah” escaped my lips before an opaque blanket of pink velvet enveloped my tongue. Claw meat arrived like a present resting on my spoon and I admired someone doing their homework on what makes superior bisque- cream, sherry and lobster- easy as 1-2-3. A mini-melt, grilled cheese and lobster sandwich warmed comfort food cockles in a clever sequel, while the third theory focused on a Mexican tostada with shredded lobster and black beans. I liked this least and formed the same conclusion I had in prior studies- lobster is best “au natural”, but because of this appetizer’s impeccable and playful presentation I would take this course again. I encountered the most memorable part of the meal through an inspired salad accessory which I plan on campaigning to become a staple of the American table- the tempura, fried anchovy. This warm, crispy burst of saltiness arrived like a feather in Caesar’s cap and was far superior to any crouton. The salad itself was a foggy memory as I reveled in the delight of a newfound, deep-fried friend. I wanted 100 more of them. Not a fan of scallops, but admiring their
Artists Continued from page 4 nice looking picture. To match the great art, food was prepared outside ‘Barbecue’ style. Hunter’s Steak House was at Art Walk by the Bay to feed the hungry attendees. Chow down on a Tri-tip sandwich, or have the whole combo with beans and potato salad. To satisfy the thirst, grab a Vitamin Water or take a sample (which is a wise choice if you have not tried it). Local San Diego musicians offered music. A little bit of Alternative mixed with some one-man guitar playing. It sounded ok; it matched well with the day’s full festivities. On the second day of Art Walk by the
hazelnut coated preparation served with a goat cheese risotto cake, I asked if the snapper could be done the same way. Graciously accommodating my wishes, I savored the flaky luxuriance of snapper matched with the tart decadence of savory cake. My dinner colleague ordered NY strip steak with pancetta in a pinot noir reduction which was adequate, but as he noted, “nothing to jump up and shout about”. Sideshow acts ranged from freakishly common sautéed mushrooms to jaw-dropping truffle macaroni and cheese. Introduced to the earthy delicacy of truffles for the first time, my counterpart wrangled with the concept that this Kong-sized strain of flavor could spawn from one ingredient. This potent pasta indeed rivaled the great ape as eighth wonder of the world. Rounding out the event was the potted brownie performing sautéed bananas splits as vanilla ice cream skated on a sweet brulee shell, finally cracking under the weight of plunging spoons. It scored a 7.2 by the judges and was a worthy competitor. As much as I enjoyed each avenue of this meal’s tour, my resounding memory was the absorbanant price. With entrees ranging between $29.95-48.95 it’s impossible to make this your regular Saturday go-to, but even for special occasions the lack of dress code and ambiance make it difficult to drop that kind of money at the ‘Prime’ anytime. A compromise is struck at C-Level, Island Prime’s subdued sibling that occupies the same structure and sits to the left of the bar. Its less expensive menu features highfalutin appetizers (ahi tuna stack) and sandwiches (lobster BLT) indulging in an identical view at a fraction of the cost. CLevel still allows the finer things in life to be experienced while wearing flip-flops, but lets you leave with part of your paycheck.
It is believed that through this personal style and lighthearted nature he was able to get anyone to tell him their story. Laura Castañeda, from the radio/television department, said that Lewis was a gentle, funny, man who could make anybody feel at ease. Castañeda recalled the breathing exercises Lewis would have students perform that the students would find humorous but, in effect, would loosen up both their vocal chords and the mood of the room. According to Castañeda, Lewis was a master at getting people to open up. This was a trait that lent itself to the well-being of students. Chatfield recalled witnessing timid students clam up in front of the camera and how Lewis could always help them out of
Dances Continued from page 3 The performances will be presented by five established choreographers, Yolande Snaith from UCSD, SDDT company member John Diaz, L.A. choreographer Rande Dorn, and up and coming Kyle Abraham of New York. The choreographers will be working with 46 dancers who will performing at the event. Two new works will also be contributed by SDDT Artistic Director Jean
their shell. Joe Kocherans, music director of campus radio station Jazz 88, said that Lewis could help students to find their own voice instead of imitating someone else’s. Regarded as a master of his craft by his colleagues Lewis had earned such descriptions as “one of the best voices in broadcasting” and “a dignified man.” Lewis was responsible for helping many people out during his teaching career and was regarded as a mentor to many, according to Kocherans. Lewis will remain a mentor that people will remember for his commitment to his craft. “He was dedicated to education,” Jay Otis Williams of Jazz 88 said. In keeping with that dedication, a memorial scholarship is being established in Lewis’ name. Donations to the Fred Lewis Scholarship at City College can be sent in care of the San Diego City College Foundation, 1313 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101. Isaacs, whose innovating ideas and artistry have launched this project. The concept of the Trolley Dances is to bring dance to the community and introduce new neighborhoods and places. The event started in 1999, and has also been adopted in San Francisco. Sponsors for the event include, City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, County of San Diego, San Diego Gas and Electric, Coca-Cola and the San Diego Foundation. For tickets and information call (619) 225-1803 or visit the San Diego Dance Theater Web site at www.sandiegodancetheater.org.
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Bay, Marco Miranda, an abstract painter from Mexico, admired the people gazing at his work and complimenting his fine talent. His use of color and imagination makes the paintings pop out. For one of his paintings, Miranda explains how he tried to make it look a bit realistic. “I tried to make it look like wall paper. I added these splotches to it,” Miranda admitted. Although he is from Mexico, he likes to show off his work anywhere he can. “I have a studio in Mexico, but I wanted to come here to the Art Walk.” The artists at Art Walk by the Bay absorbed all the questions, comments and compliments that came their way. Having their work viewed at by so many people was an astonishment in itself. “San Diego has the best local shows for artists,” reflected Kate McCavit. Without a doubt, I believe she is right.
5
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6 City Times
OPINION
September 25, 2007
Death by propaganda How to survive amidst a tsunami of advertising Waiting in line at my local grocery, I glanced at the magazine rack. Amongst the usual defecation de jour was an update on Britney Spears. “Britney’s sad comeback,” read one, “fat cow” read another; the headlines featured snap shots of Britney performing her newest single, “Gimme More” in black lingerie, revealing a healthy body, although perhaps not thin by Hollywood standards. I’ve never been one to defend Britney Spears, but the media backlash that has become magazine fodder for every self-loathing woman that rolls through the checkout line, made my eyes go red. I had the sudden impulse to go aisle by aisle, ripping every magazine off the racks only to catapult Emily Pfaff them into a fiery inferno of bad taste and outright libel. The media doesn’t want to advertise depressing subjects like human rights violations in Darfur, or the innocent civilians recently gunned down by Blackwater militiamen in Iraq, because that doesn’t sell. Apparently, we’d much rather focus on whether or not Britney has a bad spray tan. The defamation of women by the media is the equivalent of today’s modern witch-hunt. Britney as a young single mother is no longer an acceptable role model for America’s quasi-Nazi populi. If you need proof, go to a Chargers game. The fake bags with nipples posing as breasts and artificial waistlines of these “professional” cheerleaders might give you some idea. Whoever thought football season was for the love of the game might be shocked to see how many times a mini skirt clad young lady’s gyrations, are featured on the big screen during a game. Face it, they’re strippers with pom poms and the ticket office their g-string. Shrug your shoulders and laugh it off if you want, the media’s exploitation of the human mind and body has a daily impact on what you think, and what you do. Be honest with yourself; take an introspective look at how you view your own image and what motivates you. You’ll find we’re all at least just a little bit guilty of self-mutilation. In this month’s Rollingstone, Milk ads featuring characters
VIEWPOINT
See PROPAGANDA, page 7
CityTimes Volume 62, Issue 2 September 25, 2007 Published as: The Jay Sees / 1945-1949 Fortknightly / 1949-1978 City Times / 1978Incorporating the newspapers Tecolote, Knight Owl and Flicks
Luis Bahena Editor-in-Chief Alissa Wisniewski News Editor
Sasha Pfau Feature Editor Cari Arthur Photography Editor City Times Staff Shay Dewey, Jacqueline Beltran, Christopher Bloss, Shevaun Brandon, Benjamin Cruz, Brian Dowd, Katherine Dunn, Nailah Edmondson, Evonne Ermey, Aysha Johnson, Whitney Lawrence, David McAtee, Robert Moreno. Jamila Mosi, Larisa Myers, Lauren Nichols, Danny Penera, Josie Salazar, Amanda Vongsavath Shanika Whaley
Emily Pfaff Opinion Editor
Contributors Lauren Ciallella Stephen Knuth, Manny Lopez Donna Maranto, Noe Rojas
Brandy Magyar Arts Editor
Roman S. Koenig Journalism Adviser
City Times is published twice monthly during the semester. Signed opinions are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent those of the entire newspaper staff, City College administration, faculty and staff or the San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees. District policy statement This publication is produced as a learning experience under a San Diego Community College District instructional program. All materials, including opinions expressed herein, are the sole responsibility of the students and should not be interpreted to be those of the college district, its officers or employees. How to reach us: City Times San Diego City College 1313 Park Blvd. San Diego, CA 92101 Newsroom: L-125 Phone: (619) 388-3880 Fax: (619) 388-3814 E-mail: citytimes@gmail.com Program homepage: www.sdcity.edu/citytimes
Member: Journalism Association of Community Colleges, Associated Collegiate Press and California Newspaper Publishers Association
News homepage: www.sdcitytimes.com
EMILY PFAFF City Times
Living among the ashes The ostracism of America’s smokers
Smokers are people too. This thought was floating through my mind as I finished the three-minute trek to the smoking area where I work. Three minutes you say? Doesn’t sound so bad. It’s three minutes there and three minutes back, which takes six minutes off my ten-minute break, giving me four minutes to inhale a cigarette at lightning speed before I’m late and have to rake out the drains as punishment. I work at an organic health food store that recently moved the smoking area from its former, convenient location at the corner flower shop to directly behind my store, six doors down. Smoking seems to be the new leprosy, a socially unacceptable affliction that’s gradually being pushed into the shadows. This ostracism of smokers extends beyond my place of employment and to the streets of El Cajon
VIEWPOINT
Alissa Wisniewski
where a new smoking policy has been passed, basically forbidding smokers from tainting the fresh air of busy streets or restaurant patios. If that isn’t bad enough, now City College is going to implement the campus smoking ban, passed last semester. One of the most enticing aspects of collegiate life is that as adults, we, the students, are able to smoke on campus; had we been able to do so in high school, I probably would’ve gone more. Another form of discrimination towards smokers is the outrageous taxes placed on a pack of cigarettes in some states. In New York City, a single pack costs around $7.50. Thank God the initiative proposing similar tax increases in California didn’t pass
because I might have had to pick up a second job. As another way to appease the non-smokers, NYC forces manufacturers to use the more expensive, quick-burning cigarette paper on products being shipped there. While this can be irritating for a smoker on a windy day in the city, it’s not intolerable. It’s a perfect compromise! California should consider a method like this one, instead of banning it outright. It’s better for the environment, decreases second-hand smoke and blah blah blah ... whatever makes those non-smokers happy. The truth is that this war on smoking is the result of a few bad apples in the smoking community who lit up around the wrong people. Personally, if there are soccer moms with their children around, I keep the Marlboros in their holster. I feel like these
See ASHES, page 7
Thanks for pedestrian safety coverage Dear Editor: Thanks to Shay Dewey for the great article she wrote entitled, “Better pedestrian safety is project’s goal” in the September 11th edition of the City Times. While sad to announce the formal ending of the City College/East Village Pedestrian & Bicyclist Safety Project, due to the State Office of Traffic Safety grant to City College ending, much has been accomplished and yet we recognize there is still a lot of work ahead. It will take dedication, advocacy, and the support of City College and the community to continue advancing traffic safety mitigations around the campus and in East Village. The City has development plans currently underway for the downtown area, which will impact City College and nearby East Village. City College serves not only as a landmark, but also as a hub of activity in the downtown area. It is important to make the area safe and walkable for everyone. This project has been a conduit for people to get involved and provide recommendations for traffic safety improvements in the area. As development in downtown continues, so will the increase in the number of pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the
LETTER TO THE EDITOR City Times Readers
area. I encourage everyone to be more proactive and practice safety first. Several partnerships have been forged during the last year and a half. Through other resources, it is our hope to continue our great partnerships with Campus Administration and the Associated Students. City College has taken a huge step in supporting the safety of its students and the future generation. Thank you to City Times and Newscene for providing such wonderful coverage of the project. The Institute for Public Strategies will remain available to hear your concerns and ideas regarding student safety in the East Village area. And remember...”Pedestrian Safety Is No Accident”. Shontey Hambrick Community Organizer City College/East Village Pedestrian & Bicyclist Safety Project Institute for Public Strategies
September 25, 2007
OPINION / NEWS
Scrolls Continued from page 3 between the scrolls and their prehistory in Judaic traditions and their broader links to Judeo-Christian cultures. She also emphasized the multi-disciplinary nature of scholarship on the scrolls bringing together experts in the sciences and humanities alike. “Students should know what life was like back then. What were the Essenes thinking about? The Dead Sea Scrolls of-
Propaganda Continued from page 6 from the NBC hit show Heroes, advertise claims that kids that drink milk are often “leaner”. The implication being, “drink milk, or be fat!” Allowing advertising executives to benefit from the insecurities they’ve created by purchasing “diet” pills, padded underwear, and pills meant to boost sexual stamina, we’re only giving the money grubbing powers that be permission to further
Ashes Continued from page 6 are the people with the power to destroy my favorite vice. One thing that’s certain, these bans sure are invoking the rebellious spirit of my youth, when I started smoking as a way to revolt against authority. For all you non-smokers praising the increase in smoking bans and the harsher
City Times
7
fer that,” Meehan said. “The Dead Sea Scrolls are one of the most significant discoveries of the 20th Century,” Meehan added. “They predate the earliest Hebrew bible, the St. Petersburg’s Codex, by over one thousand years.” The scrolls include well known texts like Deuteronomy, the Psalms and the famous Copper Scroll. “The presentation was very good. Lots of info,” Professor Elisa Orozco-Toops said. “I’m very pleased City had it because now I’m going to see the Dead Sea Scrolls in Balboa Park. It’s a once in a lifetime deal.” “She told the stories behind the Dead
Sea Scrolls. It motivated me to go see the exhibition because they may not travel anymore in two years,” City student Marsha Raskin said. Lim said the idea of the Dead Sea Scrolls presentation came from a faculty and staff visit to the Natural History Museum where the scrolls are currently on display. “This summer, our president took 50 faculty and staff members to the museum. We are just expanding it to students,” Lim said. Lim also mentioned that the Dead Sea Scrolls may no longer travel in about two years because of the fragile nature of the
scrolls. “This truly is a lifetime opportunity. Students should go, even if they know little about them,” Meehan said. “People, after the fact, tell themselves that they should have gone.” So, if you missed the lecture about the Dead Sea Scrolls, World Cultures at City invites students to see the actual Dead Sea Scrolls at the San Diego Natural History Museum. Though World Cultures grant proposals, faculty can take a group of student to the Museum. Applications can be obtained in A-2 or call (619) 388-3552 for more information.
humiliate us. It’s time we make the conscience decision to take action for ourselves as human beings, demand that companies promote healthy ideals by refusing to buy products that endorse a system based on exploitation. Take a break from the TV for a week, go to the library and check out a book rather than buying the latest issue of Hollywood garbage. Have confidence in yourself and take pride in the things that you do, you’ll be surprised to find the right attitude will get you a lot further in life than any pair of overpriced jeans.
Mexico
There were several other groups manning tables at the festival. Ramigia Vernudez, a tutor and student at City College, spent time operating a booth and passing out fliers for The Logan Community Planning Group Organization. “We want to have a city sanctioned organization that will get to review development proposals in the area. We will then turn them into recommendations or rejections. Our recommendations will go to the city council, the planning commission and to the housing commission. Right now Barrio Logan is one of the few communities that has never had a community planning group,” explained Vernudez. The celebration was the perfect opportunity for community leaders to embrace their culture and also offer support to Latinos struggling within the community. Ramirez remarked, “It is not only a way to celebrate our heritage, but also a way of resisting, saying here we are and we’re proud of who we are.” The festival ended to a chorus of shouts, “Viva Mexico! Viva la raza! Viva Mexico!”
Emily Pfaff is City Times’ opinion editor
penalties for violating them, just wait until Big Brother tramples on one of your favorite pastimes. Drinking on the beach or driving ridiculous SUVs may be next, since these could be harmful to others’ health. The silver lining for all of this has been a more serious look at jumping on the wagon and kicking the habit. All of this, and a stern lecture from my disapproving grandmother who sniffed right through my perfume at last summer’s family reunion. Alissa Wisniewski is City Times’ news editor
Continued from page 3 Barrio, a group that educates Latino citizens of their rights and offers legal advice for families suffering deportation, managed a booth near the side of the stage selling votive candles, T-shirts and refreshments. All profits were donated to the community. When asked about the preparation that took place for the festival Ramirez replied, “This is a very grassroots effort, everything was virtually donated. The musicians all donated their time. The Folklorico dancers all donated their time.” He directs my attention to the different tables selling dollar tacos and donuts, “These are all migrant families, who, you know, needed extra cash. Many of them are suffering deportations. If you look around you see no Budweiser or Miller Light sponsorships or anything like that here. This is very grassroots.”
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8 City Times
Lady Knights kick into action
SPORTS
September 25, 2007
Nailah Edmondson City Times Sweltering 100 degrees in the third week of August outside performing drills might be the last place many students would like to be. Not for a group of dedicated enthusiastic young women, who participated in soccer tryouts before the San Diego City College school year began. The Pacific Coast Conference season kicked off Sept. 12th for the City College women’s soccer team, putting them up against opponents such as Southwestern and Cuyamaca and leaving the Knights with a record of 0-2. Sophomore Laura Reyes and Freshman Anabel Benitez, both former players of Hoover High School, are also lead scorer players so far this fall. Sophomore Linh Tran a former High Tech High School soccer player has 107 saves, including the pre and regular season games for the team. Tryouts didn’t bring as many players out as Head Coach Andrea Milburn and Assistant Coach Tina Barreto had predicted, although they were still able to create a solid competitive team. The team includes six returning players from the previous season and a new addition of 10 freshman players. “We struggled through the non conference matches, but are making progress,” said Milburn. This has been Milburn’s fourth season as the head coach of the City College women’s soccer team. A native to San Diego, Milburn grew up in Rancho San
David McAtee City Times
City College women’s soccer coach Andi Milburn and assistant coaches Anya Bohun-Chudyniv and Tina Barreto observe a practice session on Sept. 20. Diego where she attended Valhalla High School staying active by playing on the soccer team and running track and cross-country. She then went to Regis University in Colorado on a soccer and lacrosse scholarship, where she spent her undergraduate years. Soon after, she returned to California to attend graduate school at Azusa Pacific University studying physical education, where she received her masters. The Knights are showing a difference compared to last season in a good way, Milburn said. “Team chemistry and overall attitude is much more positive than last year. They push themselves very hard and never give up. “ Milburn expects the team to finish up the season above .500 in their conference, at the same time
accumulating and maintaining a team GPA of 3.0. Women’s soccer is evolving compared to twenty years ago. “It’s the fastest growing sport among American youth and the Women’s National Team has been an integral part of this growth,” Milburn said. As the sport expands with time, it increases the number of professional role model’s for young girls to look up to. The women’s soccer program philosophy is a key ingredient to a successful team. The philosophy contains nine major points such as responsibility, priorities, respect, self-control, sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, pride and service. For aspiring soccer athletes, Milburn says “Practice, practice, practice.”
David McAtee City Times
SDSU Aztecs women’s soccer ends shutout streak ‘I think this was one of the best performances we’ve had all year,’ head coach says Edward Lewis SDSU Daily Aztec SAN DIEGO (U-WIRE) — What can you do in seven hours and nine minutes? You could get a good night’s sleep, earn a solid day’s wage or even drive to the Bay Area. Apparently, you can also go four and a half soccer games without allowing a goal. Freshman goalkeeper Aubree Southwick finally allowed a goal -- her first in 429 minutes -- as the San Diego State women’s soccer team lost to No. 14 Cal 20 on Sunday at the SDSU Sports Deck. The last time Southwick had
allowed a goal was Sept. 2 against Florida Atlantic, four minutes into the game. Her stellar play carried SDSU through a 2-0-1 record the next three contests, even though the squad only scored three times. “To go 429 minutes on the schedule we’re playing right now is exceptional,” head coach Mike Friesen said. “But it’s not just Aubree. It’s Millie Allen, Ali Lokanc, the entire back line.” But about 53 minutes into Sunday’s game, Cal forward Alex Morgan beat Southwick to end the streak. Midfielder Caroline Lea added an insurance goal with just minutes to go in the contest. Still, Friesen came away
pleased with the team’s performance. “We had a very good game plan and frustrated them all game long,” Friesen said. “To play the schedule we have at the level we’re playing at is awesome. I couldn’t be more happy.” While Friesen was satisfied with the game, the stats would disagree. Cal (5-1-0) outshot SDSU (2-2-2) 14 to three, including 12 shots on goal to none. The Aztecs didn’t record a shot in the second half. “We didn’t create a lot of shots because we weren’t going to get ourselves stretched out because such a talented team (like the Bears) can break us down,” Friesen said.
Senior co-captain and midfielder Jessica Girdner maintained that the lack of offense was all part of their plan. “Our goal was to lay off and let them come to us and get our formation and our shape and work together as a team,” Girdner said. “The formation we played today was different than normal; we played a 4-5-1, which is only one forward; we were trying to move and work up as a team, and it just didn’t happen today.” Despite the lack of offense, Friesen came away very pleased, though. “I think it was one of the best performances we’ve had all year,” Friesen said. “It was almost
exactly what we wanted out of the game; to be honest I couldn’t be more happy.” The Aztecs have a short week as they kick off a four-game road trip. They head to San Jose State (0-3-2) for a 7 p.m. contest tomorrow at Spartan Stadium. SDSU then travels to UCSB (1-3-2) to take on Friesen’s former team at 6 p.m. Sunday at Harder Stadium. “I still have a lot of family and friends in the area, and so it’s always fun to go back and see those people, and there’s still some girls on the UCSB team that I recruited and never coached,” Friesen said. “But at the same time it’s not about me, it’s about the team.”